Conference Proceedings

Abstract: Flood presents a significant risk to communities globally as flood damage is increasing due to climate change. To effectively reduce flood damage, scientists use a term ‘design flood’, which refers to a flood discharge linked to annual exceedance probability. This study investigates the role of several statistical models adopted in design flood estimation using flood and catchment data from 88 catchments in eastern Australia. The first objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of two statistical modeling approaches, generalised additive models (GAM) and log-log regression in estimating flood quantiles. Generalised Extreme Value (GEV) distribution with L-moments was employed where the mean, the coefficient of variation and the coefficient of skewness were adopted as the response variables and the catchment characteristics as predictor variables. This study reveals that GAM performs better than log-log regression technique in capturing the variability of flood quantile estimates. The second objective of this study is to illustrate the learning aspects of the adopted statistical models. It is found that most of the students do not understand the fundamentals of these statistical modelling techniques and often reach inappropriate conclusions. The findings of this study will assist students and junior researchers to understand the assumptions related to statistical flood modelling approaches and how this affects decision making in sustainable flood plain management.

Abstract: Design flood estimation in ungauged catchments remains a persistent challenge in the field of hydrology. To address this challenge, the Regional Flood Frequency Analysis (RFFA) is a widely accepted method. Until now, the RFFA method has primarily relied on linear approaches, which are inept to capture the complexity of nonlinear hydrological processes. The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based techniques has demonstrated superior performance in addressing this limitation. Recently in RFFA, several studies have indicated the effectiveness of AI-based models compared to linear models. The advantage of AI-based techniques lies in their ability to learn from given datasets without adhering to predefined rules, contributing to more accurate predictions. However, application of AI to RFFA problem is not straightforward. This paper outlines the learning aspects that the first author gains in carrying out her PhD research applying AI-based techniques to RFFA problem to New South Wales flood and catchment data. It is found that learning the fundamentals of the AI-based techniques is relatively difficult. Although its application to a dataset using available software is relatively easy, the interpretation of results and understanding assumptions related to the model output need significant efforts. The findings of this study will benefit other students and researchers who would like to apply AIbased methods to RFFA problems in Australia and other countries.

Abstract: This study which is a part of groundwater engineering education investigated water and solute transport using HYDRUS 1D for unsaturated zone of three distinct geographical locations of NSW situated in the proximity of Australia’s largest groundwater reservoirs. The diverse climatic conditions ranging from subtropic moderate of Albury and Singleton to semi-arid of Lightning Ridge with significant variations in the meteorological parameters were researched and analysed to simulate the solute concentration along the soil profile of 100 m considering root water uptake. The results showed variations in solute concentration peaks based on the input of rainfall suggesting that frequent rainfall reduces the concentration accumulation. These simulations thus, were useful in deducing the effect of salt accumulation on solute residence times and concentration distributions in relation to climate, temperature, soil properties, land practices and irrigation methods. It has been helpful to understand their influence on groundwater quality to make informed decisions on the use of Australia’s most valuable water resource.

Abstract: Noise pollution is mostly a man made phenomenon, which induces health problems when exposed to it for long term. The purpose of this engineering study is to analyse and assess the noise level of some selected suburban areas of New South Wales (NSW) in Australia. The research recognizes common sources of noise pollution, including transportation, industrial and household activities, outdoor recreation and some natural events, all of which can have detrimental effects on human health, including hearing loss, sleep disturbances, cardiovascular diseases and cognitive impairments. The research highlights substantial noise level fluctuations in various suburbs, notably in Rockdale, Kogarah, Sydenham, and Tempe, where afternoon noise surpasses the 80 dB EPA threshold in specific instances, linked to heightened vehicular traffic and human activity during school and work hours. Conversely, Hurstville suburb exhibits distinct morning noise peaks close to the EPA threshold, emphasizing the localised nature of noise pollution and the impact of specific temporal and spatial factors, while Wolli Creek maintains an average noise level close to the threshold at 76.13 dB.

Abstract: Urban stormwater management involves strategies to mitigate the adverse effects of urban runoff. These strategies aim to reduce flood risk and enhance the environmental values and sustainability of urban water systems. But the effective urban stormwater management is highly dependent on the factors such as spatial variability of urban watershed characteristics as well as the scale of the area under consideration. This insight has prompted increasing utilization of physically based urban watershed models such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Stormwater Management Model (SWMM). Thus, in this study we utilized SWMM for modeling the dynamic runoff response in a stormwater zone of Hyderabad, India. The study results are validated for a particular observed 48-hour storm event occurred on 3rd and 4th of October 2015. Five years (2010-2014) of hourly rainfall data have been used to estimate the design storms with 2, 5, 10, and 25 years return periods using Gumbel distribution. The results indicate that the existing drainage system is insufficient to withstand the generated runoff by the design storm of 2-year return period and causes notable flooding. The water elevation profile generated from the initial node, representing the beginning of the drainage system, to the outfall indicates that the flooding occurred at the outfall during the peak precipitation event. Also, the hydrographs which were developed through SWMM at different links and outfalls are crucial in designing the sumps or ponds and determining pump capacities, aiding in effective stormwater management practices.

Abstract: Rapid urbanization and population growth in metropolitan regions have led to increased demand for water resources, exerting pressure on existing water supply systems. In this scenario, Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) emerges as a viable solution to alleviate water scarcity by capturing and utilizing rainwater, thereby conserving natural water bodies. In this context, understanding the spatial distribution of RWH potential becomes crucial for implementing the same. This study aims to delineate RWH potential zones within Stormwater Zone 12 of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) by integrating GIS and remote sensing data along with hydrogeological features. The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed to assign weights to the considered factors and to calculate the correlation matrix, which is followed by Weighted Overlay Analysis (WOA) to formulate the results. In addition to topographic data such as Digital Elevation Model (DEM), Land Use/Land Cover (LULC), soil data, and socio-economic datasets were also integrated into this study. The results of this study categorized the study area into five distinct classes based on RWH capacity, namely ‘Very Low’, ‘Low’, ‘Moderate’, ‘High’ and ‘Very High’. This study revealed that the final outcomes were highly sensitive to changes in the parameters- LULC, DEM and rainfall patterns. The majority of the area was classified into moderate to low categories, with limited instances of very high potential. In urbanized areas, reduced natural infiltration capacity along with increased anthropogenic activities, impede the retention of incoming rainwater, contributing to the scarcity of areas with very high potential.

Abstract: Rapid urbanization and climate change have intensified challenges related to urban water management. Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) represents an innovative approach for managing urban water resources, integrating sustainable water management practices within urban planning. This systematic review focuses on the state of WSUD research in India both at a house-hold scale to a catchment or community scale. Despite being in the early stages of WSUD implementation, India’s research highlights key themes, methodologies, and outcomes in this domain. Majority of the literatures reviewed the WSUD measures that is being practised in India from the early 19th century, which include rainwater harvesting methods, stormwater diversions, designing of permeable pavements, sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) etc. A considerable amount of work discusses about the improvements found in various quality and quantity-based parameters before and after WSUD implementation. The findings provide a detailed understanding of WSUD implementation and its applications, aiming to inform policymakers, practitioners, and researchers engaged in sustainable urban water management.

Abstract: The physical, biological, and chemical properties of a river are directly influenced by its river water temperature (RWT), which also controls the survival and fitness of all aquatic organisms. Machine Learning (ML) gained popularity because of its ability to model complex and nonlinearities between RWT and its predictors compared to process-based models that require large data. The present study demonstrates a new ML approach, Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), to predict accurate RWT estimates with the most appropriate form of AT. Further, the proposed XGBoost results are compared with the Support Vector Regressor (SVR) model. The proposed modelling framework's effectiveness is demonstrated with a tropical river system of India, Tunga-Bhadra River, as a case study. Results indicate that the XGBoost results are better than SVR for RWT prediction. The study demonstrates how ML methods can be used to generate accurate RWT predictions in river water quality modelling.

Abstract: Research has shown that freshwater ecosystem occupies only 2.3% of the Earth’s surface, yet they are home of at least 9.5% of the animal species. A river is a crucial ecosystem that serves as an essential source for human food and industrial use. According to recent studies, the riverine ecosystems are being negatively impacted by the 1.1℃ rise in global surface temperature during the year 2011 to 2020 compared to the pre-industrial era in the year 1850-1900. These impacts are evidenced by the exaggerated growth of harmful algal blooms and massive fish kills. River water temperature is a key indicator in assessing the quality of aquatic ecosystem, making it imperative to monitor and understand its trend. This study examines the trend in the annual maximum and minimum river water temperature for the selected river stations across Victoria, Australia, with a focus on correlating these patterns with the land temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH level, water level and discharge. To achieve this, the ManKendall test, a widely used non-parametric statistical method used in trend analysis, is employed, while Sen’s slope is used to quantify the direction and magnitude of the trend. Results show that generally, RWT and LT show a relatively increasing trend across all the selected stations. However, the expected inverse relationship between DO and RWT is not consistently observed. Varied trend patterns were also noted for pH, WL and discharge across all the stations. This study highlights a complex interplay between RWT and various environmental parameters, likely influenced by climatic changes and localized environmental factors. Further investigations are essential to understand the underlying causes of these trends and their impacts on river ecosystem.

Abstract: Global demand for renewable energy has increased in the past few decades, which has escalated the importance of studying this subject in engineering education. Solar energy plays a pivotal role in meeting the demand of clean and sustainable energy and improving the stability of the energy system. This study investigates the state of solar energy adoption in New South Wales (NSW) and Victoria (VIC), Australia’s two leading States, in terms of the users’ perception and the economic impact of Solar Photovoltaic (SPV) systems in households. The Survey results from the SPV users highlight financial savings, environmental awareness and government incentives are the main drivers for adoption. Economic analysis shows, NSW has a higher monetary benefit from the installation of SPV systems than VIC, with shorter payback period (3.9 years for NSW and 6.3 years for VIC) and higher Return on Investment (approximately 317% for NSW and 156% for VIC). The Levelised Cost of Electricity (LCOE) has been calculated as $0.109 and $0.128 for NSW and VIC respectively, which indicates greater financial potential of SPV installation in NSW compared to VIC. These LCOE values have been estimated based on a common total present value of electricity generated over 25 years of lifetime of the SPV system, which has been 53,892.8 kWatt. Despite facing some challenges such as high initial costs or complex installation structures, both states have the potential to grow and take advantage of the benefits of solar energy. However, the diversity in local geographical conditions in the two states require appropriate strategies to overcome the challenges and create a more favorable environment for further deployment of solar energy.

Abstract: Design rainfall is an important input to hydrological analysis. This is generally expressed in the form of a three-dimensional curve known as intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) curves. Many countries like Australia have developed national IDF portal, which allows extraction of IDF data at any arbitrary location of the country. In case of Bangladesh such national IDF database is non-existent although there have been few studies at different locations of Bangladesh to derive local IDF curves. This study focuses on finding the best fit probability distribution function for estimating design rainfall at six meteorological stations in northwest Bangladesh. The performance of eighteen probability distributions is evaluated to find the best fit distribution for annual maximum daily rainfall data. The stations analysed include Dinajpur, Saidpur, Rangpur, Bogra, Rajshahi, and Ishurdi, covering a data period from 1965 to 2022. Two goodness-of-fit tests, the Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) and Anderson-Darling (AD) tests, were employed to determine the most suitable probability distribution for each station. The Lognormal distribution emerged as the most appropriate probability model for most of the stations according to the KS test, while the Gamma (3P) and Fréchet distribution was identified as the best fit distribution for the most stations based on the AD test. Further research is being conducted to cover a greater number of meteorological stations across the whole of Bangladesh. The results of this analysis will be used in deriving national design rainfall for Bangladesh. The paper also presents learning methods of statistical hydrological tools utilised in this study by the first author.

Abstract: Groundwater contamination is becoming a major concern worldwide, especially in the coastal regions, due to the threat of seawater intrusion. Keeping in mind growing freshwater contamination problems, especially in eastern India, the current study was conducted to assess the hydrogeological and geochemical characteristics and critically analyze the aquifer vulnerability to seawater intrusion in a coastal alluvial ‘leaky confined aquifer’ of West Bengal and Odisha. The seasonal (Pre-Monsoon and Post-Monsoon) groundwater-level and quality (EC, Clˉ and HCO3ˉ) data of the ‘leaky confined aquifer’ in 2021 and well logs data were used in this study. Two overlay-and-index-based methods were applied, namely, ‘Original GALDIT’ and ‘Modified GALDIT’ (GALDIT-AHP) methods. The five GALDIT model parameters/themes considered are: ‘Aquifer Hydraulic Conductivity (A)’, ‘Groundwater Elevation (L)’, ‘Distance from the Coastline (D)’, ‘Extent of Seawater Intrusion (I)’, and ‘Aquifer Thickness (T)’. The weights of the themes and their features were modified using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, and the raster layers of themes were integrated in ArcGIS v10.8.2 using the ‘Weighted Overlay’ tool. Results reveal that the ‘Original GALDIT’ method delineated 50–64% lesser, 47–61% higher and 3–4% higher areas under ‘Low’, ‘Moderate’ and ‘High’ vulnerability classes, respectively, compared to the three corresponding EC classes. Results further indicate that the ‘Modified GALDIT’ (GALDIT-AHP) method predicted 32–45% lesser, 14– 24% higher and 17–21% higher areas under ‘Low’, ‘Moderate’ and ‘High’ vulnerability classes, respectively, than the EC classes. The spatial validation method and correlation analysis results suggest that the ‘GALDIT-AHP’ (r=0.712–0.742) method performed much better than the ‘Original GALDIT’ (r=0.518–0.589) method in delineating aquifer vulnerable zones. Therefore, the combined application of geospatial technologies (Remote Sensing/GIS) and multi-criteria decision making techniques (like AHP) provides a reliable approach for seawater intrusion vulnerability assessment. The outcomes of this study will aid in formulating efficient plans for the sustainable management of groundwater resources.

Abstract: Studio teaching is prevalent in several engineering disciplines, such as architecture, civil, mechanical, and construction engineering. It thrives in fields where expert mentors must demonstrate skills and guide students through practical and developmental processes. Grounded in the concept of artistry, studio pedagogy emphasises a close mentor-mentee relationship involving an iterative process of planning, action, critique, and revision. Central to this process is the continuous gathering of feedback. However, in the current climate of large classes and evolving learning needs, the traditional studio model needs to be improved to effectively support students' learning. This paper presents a practical teaching practice developed over five years, where the studio model is reimagined through a combination of face-to-face tutorials, online activities, focused workshops, peer- to-peer discussions, and one-on-one consultations. This redesigned model leverages a blended environment, utilising online collaborative tools to facilitate feedback gathering at various points throughout the semester, thereby enhancing students' engagement with disciplinary knowledge. The blended approach fosters a close and focused mentorship, allowing students to experiment with their designs and skill applications in a supportive environment. Additionally, this method enables students to customise and self-pace their learning, significantly improving their educational experience. It addresses the increasing challenges of class attendance, particularly during critical points in the semester, by providing flexible and accessible learning opportunities. This paper demonstrates how a blended studio model can effectively enhance students' design skills and overall learning outcomes in engineering education.

Abstract: Civil engineering is a multifaceted field that involves designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure and the built environment. However, there are notable complexities in civil engineering subjects that are challenging to be taught in the classroom. Although dealing with these complexities was once a challenge for engineers trained in traditional classrooms, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies now increasingly transform the contemporary classroom in terms of the curricula and pedagogy to provide a better educational outcome. AI has emerged as a powerful tool in numerous fields including civil engineering that can help design and optimize processes, predict the behaviour of materials, and enhance their performance. Integrating AI technologies into civil engineering education proposes a significant paradigm shift, offering novel approaches to teaching and learning in this critical field. This paper presents a thorough examination of the multifaceted applications of AI in civil engineering, encompassing structural health monitoring of civil infrastructure, smart infrastructure monitoring, geotechnical engineering, traffic management and transportation planning, environmental sustainability, building information modelling (BIM), condition and risk assessment, urban project and plan, and construction management. Through a systematic literature survey, we explore how AI algorithms, incorporating image processing, machine learning, and deep learning, reshape educational practices and prepare researchers for modern infrastructure development and management complexities. We discuss the transformative potential of AI in fostering experiential learning and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. By synthesizing empirical evidence and best practices, this paper offers actionable perceptions for educators, policymakers, and industry stakeholders seeking to harness the full potential of AI in civil engineering education.

Abstract: The case study reflection on immigration and refugees is from the field of humanitarianism and education. The refugee and immigration international issue has become a local issue, impacting Western Sydney. The circumstance is the recent entry of Iranian Qualified Engineers to Australia, Western Sydney, shows the system is failing to employ them. Thus, professional intervention is required with Metro-Assist offering a Skill-Me program to assists migrants and refugees seeking worthwhile ongoing employment. The Skill-Me program uses third party Engineers Without Borders and their individual Professionals Engineers to assist in their voluntary mentoring Refugee and Skilled Migrants. This reflective report a case study research method seeks to find root causes and solution of Iranian refugees and migrants not gaining employment when settling in Western Sydney Australia.

Abstract: The focus is on a traditional assessment an essay. The problem of practice was the Feedback is too late to act on it. The feedback does not develop students work. The feedback is not part of learning feedback. An improvement for Learning Outcomes is to have the feedback included. This is to have a concerted approach to improve learner quality and performance. Inclusivity is demonstrated within equity with students better understanding the subject matter. Strategies like Scaffolding by Hammond and Gibbons (2005), Design Principles by Bearman et al (2014) Feedback literacy, to enable uptake of feedback by Carless & Boud (2018), and Universal Design learning (NSW Govt 2024) support developing feedback.

Abstract: Engineering education is evolving continuously since its inception. The rise of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) has marked a transformative era in engineering education. This review presents the multifaceted impact of GAI on teaching approaches, learning experiences, and skill development within engineering education. GAI technologies, such as machine learning algorithms and natural language processing, have revolutionised curriculum design by enabling personalised learning pathways, adaptive assessment methods, and enhanced problem-solving capabilities. These technologies facilitate interactive and immersive learning environments through virtual labs and simulations, assisting students with hands-on experience. Moreover, GAI aids in bridging the gap between theory and practice, fostering innovation and creativity among engineering students. Challenges such as ethical considerations, the need for technical literacy among educators, and the integration of GAI tools into existing educational frameworks are also discussed. This review underscores the potential of GAI to recast engineering education by training students in such a way that they can work effectively in an increasingly AI-driven world. This study also presents future research needs on GAI in engineering education to make this technology an effective mode of engineering education.

Abstract: Traditionally stormwater management adopted greater impervious areas, pipe networks and concrete gutters to remove runoff away from locality and mitigate flooding quickly. But this traditional approach to stormwater management has been associated with various environmental and social issues, including water quality degradation, erosion, loss of aquatic habitats, unexpected floods and increased urban heat island effects. As of now Australia shifted from traditional stormwater management and following in accordance with the requirements of AS/NZS 3500.3, Australian Rainfall and Runoff, Council's Design Standards (AUS-SPEC) and the National Construction Code which dictate using of different sustainable devices such as Onsite Detention System (OSD), Surface Inlet Pits and Grated Trench Drains, Subsoil drainage, Permeable paving, Light Duty Permeable Asphalt, Rainwater tanks, Overland flow paths and Gross Pollutant Traps (GPTs), but following so, many challenges arise in relation to aging infrastructures, water security, population growth and rezoning and climate variability and changes. The objective of this paper is to determine current state of stormwater management in Australia, the challenges being faced, and the innovative approaches being explored to ensure a sustainable future using more sustainable stormwater management practices, known as Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD). It has been found that WSUD is being embraced by all levels of governments in Australia to implement sustainable urban water cycle modelling. New financial analysis incorporating both direct and indirect benefits provided by WSUD needs to be developed in future research so that this sustainable method is not viewed as financially unviable. WSUD has also challenges such as perceived higher maintenance cost and lack of established design guidelines supported by local data, which need to be addressed in future research.

Abstract: This paper presents the learning experience of a high school student (first author) who was working with an expert hydrologist (third author) for his year 10 industry experience. A student-centred approach was adopted to teach hydrology to the student. In this case study, it was assumed that a bridge was to be designed at the Allyn River, at Halton, New South Wales, Australia (station ID 210022). The task involved abstraction of annual maximum flood (AMF) data from the WaterNSW website and several candidate probability distributions to the AMF data using EasyFit and R software. The ranking of the candidate probability distributions was based on three goodness of fit tests (Kolmogorov Smirnov, Anderson Darling and Chi Squared), which enabled selection of the top five distributions for each test. It was concluded that the Generalised Extreme Value distribution was the best fitting probability distribution for the AMF data at the site. It was found that a student-centred approach can aid in learning hydrology, which is regarded as a difficult subject due to its empirical nature.

Abstract: The rise in urbanisation has led to increased stormwater runoff due to the proliferation of impervious surfaces, vegetation loss, and decreased drainage efficiency. To manage urban stormwater, water sensitive urban design (WSUD) has been proposed in Australia, which reduces urban flooding and protects our natural waterways. Stormwater quality improvement devices (SQIDs) are elements of WSUD that can remove pollutants from urban stormwater. This paper reviews key SQIDs, which are widely adopted globally. A bibliometric analysis is conducted based on relevant publications from 2000 to 2024, which reveals that the USA, China, and Australia are the leading countries in sustainable stormwater management research. A significant international collaboration between USA and Australia is found. Also, research on bioretention and other nature-based solutions has been increasing in recent years, highlighting the need for sustainable urban stormwater management. It is expected that WSUD will be up-taken by developing countries following its success in developed countries. This paper also presents learning aspects of stormwater engineering by the first author.

Abstract: This study aims to explore the relationship between deep learning and authentic assessment in Australian undergraduate engineering education. The hypothesis posits that students will adopt deep learning approaches when engaging with authentic assessment tasks. Drawing from existing literature on student learning approaches, assessment influences, and disciplinary differences, this study aimed to identify the dimensions influencing deep learning, examine student perceptions of authentic assessment, and establish the relationship between assessment types and deep learning factors. After carefully designing the survey questionnaire, pilot testing was conducted, aimed to determine if the questionnaire effectively measures its intended constructs, assess its ease of completion, and identify any areas of confusion. The final online questionnaire was sent to the students of some selected civil and mechanical engineering subjects at QUT. Students received the questionnaire after completing all their assessments of the respective units. Total 72 students responded, among which 37 were found to be complete. The results indicate that authentic assessments, such as group research projects or project-based learning, are considerably more effective in fostering self-directed learning, critical thinking, and knowledge integration compared to traditional assessments like invigilated written exams.

Abstract: River water temperature (Tw) plays an important role for balancing the ecosystem and biodiversity of the aquatic species. For this, it is very important to investigate the relationship between Tw and factors influencing it. This study used 24 years of data from five stations from different river basins within New South Wales (NSW) that were accessed from WaterNSW and Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). This paper investigates the factors influencing Tw by the application of statistical methods like multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis and Man-Kendall (MK) test. MLR analysis was used to find the relationship between Tw and other independent variables like water level (WL), discharge (Q), electrical conductivity (EC) and air temperature (Ta), and MK test was used to find the trends of the variables over the time. It was found that for Stations 419003, 210055 and 410073, the group of predictors significantly explained the variability in Tw based on regression statistics. For annual minimum data series, none of the stations showed significance at the 0.10 level. Station 210055 showed highest co-efficient of determination (R2 ) value indicating better explanatory power. The MK test results revealed that for both the annual maximum and minimum temperature series, Station 409061 had significant trend for most of the selected variables and Stations 418058, 210055 and 410073 had significant trend for one variable only. Further study is being conducted covering a greater number of stations across NSW.

Abstract: This study explores the adaptation of water sensitive urban design (WSUD) as a sustainable design approach into the urban setting of Ashulia within the Dhaka district of Bangladesh which is facing several environmental challenges such as flooding, water logging and pollution of water bodies due to unmanaged and unsustainable urbanization. WSUD offers a holistic approach to management of stormwater runoff quality and quantity with the aim of mimicking the natural hydrological cycle as of pre-development phase using various design elements such as Gross Pollutant Traps (GPT), swales, bioretention basin, constructed wetlands, sedimentation basins, infiltration trenches and rainwater harvesting. Methodology consists of development of Intensity Frequency Duration (IFD) curve, soil data collection and pre-liminary design of infiltration trench system in a medium scale catchment within the study area. Initial findings suggest that incorporation of WSUD elements measures such as infiltration trenches can be instrumental in attenuation of peak discharge. However, low infiltration soil capacity of the study area suggests the requirement of other WSUD elements to be constructed upstream of the trenches signifying the complexity of adoption of infiltration trenches solely in the local condition. Future work will involve more research to ger more detailed information of the local conditions and suitability of more conducive WSUD measures that can provide more fruitful results to alleviate growing stormwater management issues in Ashulia, Bangladesh.

Abstract: This study explores the challenges and trends in engineering fluid mechanics education through a bibliometric analysis of literature from Scopus spanning from 1978 to 2024. The analysis aims to identify key themes, prevailing challenges, effective methodologies, and emerging trends in this field. The results highlight "fluid mechanics," "engineering education," and "students" as the most interconnected and frequently occurring topics, underscoring their central importance. Engineering dominates the field with 51.8% of the total documents, followed by contributions from social sciences (17.3%) and computer science (10.1%). Geographically, the United States leads with 795 publications and a total citation count of 571, followed by significant contributions from China (90 publications), Portugal (70), Spain (60), Germany (32), and Australia (31). The document types include 342 conference papers (67.5%) and 131 journal articles (25.8%), reflecting diverse dissemination of research findings. Innovative pedagogical approaches, such as active learning and e-learning, are emphasized for their potential to address educational challenges. The findings provide valuable insights for educators and researchers aiming to improve teaching methodologies and curricula, ultimately enhancing student learning outcomes and better preparing future engineers for professional challenges.

Abstract: The research paper explores the application of machine learning algorithms using the WEKA platform to predict the compressive strength of concrete, a critical aspect of civil engineering. This study focuses on educating undergraduate students with no prior programming experience, offering a practical introduction to AI tools. Utilizing established datasets and advanced machine learning techniques, the research evaluates the performance of various ensemble-based models, including Random Committee, Bagging, and Rotation Forest, alongside instance-based models like KStar and IBk. The findings reveal that ensemble methods outperform instance-based techniques, providing higher prediction accuracy, lower error rates, and improved reliability. By integrating machine learning into civil engineering education, the study aims to enhance students' understanding of key concepts like compressive strength while preparing them for real-world engineering challenges. This interdisciplinary approach also underscores the potential of AI in optimizing construction materials and advancing sustainable infrastructure.

Abstract: Global water scarcity and environmental degradation highlight the urgency of sustainable water management. This study proposes an educational initiative to embed rainwater harvesting (RWH) into the school curriculum in Bangladesh. This initiative aims to equip students with essential knowledge and skills for sustainable water management through interdisciplinary pedagogy that blends theory with hands-on learning. The integration of RWH into subjects like science, geography, and social science will teach students both the technical aspects of RWH and its broader environmental, social, and economic impacts. By engaging students in interactive workshops and community outreach, the initiative seeks to enhance water sustainability awareness and create schools as models of sustainable water management within their communities. This paper outlines the rationale for integrating RWH into education, a proposed framework for curriculum development, and anticipated outcomes.

Abstract: The ongoing massive depletion of renewable and non-resources around the globe has presented the grave concern for human society. One material that requires sustainable practices is plastics, consumed widely in the world. According to a discussion paper by Anderson and Gbor (2024), till 2020-2021, annually Australia generates around 3.8 million tons of plastics out of which around only 0.4 million tonnes are recovered, and rest are being disposed to land and water. Out of varieties of polymers, ABS and PLA are some of the most popular for the manufacturing processes in the 3D printing industries. ABS plastics are also found in household items. Source of waste in the 3D printing industries are failed prints, support materials and unneeded or obsolete 3D printed models. This study aims to examine the mechanical properties of composite materials of basalt fibre and recycled ABS, including tensile, flexural and impact properties. In this study, pellets of virgin ABS are used as a baseline for understanding the degradation in recycled plastics.

Abstract: The declining access to the renewable fresh water sources is likely to result in inadequate water supply worldwide. Experts have recently tried to identify reliable, sustainable, and cost-effective fresh water supply sources. Hence, a great number of research on water savings suggest the rainwater harvesting system as one of the reliable alternatives to save fresh water. According to studies, a household rainwater harvesting system can supply 12% to 100% of its non-potable water demand based on household size, roof area, rainfall patterns and other relevant factors. The aim of this study is to estimate water savings from a roof-top based rainwater harvesting system. The daily data are collected using MyWell app. This smartphone app is developed under a groundwater monitoring project which allows public in real time monitoring of rainfall, water level, water quality and others. Primarily, this research focuses on water savings for a specific household located in Pendel Hills, a suburb of Greater Sydney region. The study household has a rainwater tank of 5 kL. All the study data from MyWell app and other secondary sources are collected for a one-year period from June 2020 to June 2021. To calculate the water savings, authors have used two approaches- (a) the theoretical approach using ‘Behavioural-Storage model’ and (b) Real-time water demand and supply estimation. This study only considered non-potable uses of the harvested rainwater. The results show that the selected rainwater tank is about to save approximately 6.39 m3 water each month (40% of demand) in the theoretical approach. While the rainwater tank is saving an average of 2.42 m3 /month water in real-time which is only 19.75% of monthly water demand. The results of this study will help to improve rainwater harvesting system performance and will contribute to achieve water related sustainable development goals.

Abstract: Bangladesh, one of the world's largest river deltas, is shaped by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. Its geographical location downstream of the Himalayan basins forces it to manage approximately 1,211 billion cubic meters (bcm) of water annually through a network of 800 rivers (BWDB, 2024). This presents significant challenges in water management (WM), including flood control, drainage, and combating tidal floods, cyclones, and salinity intrusion, particularly in the coastal zone where 40 million people frequently face disasters. Water management in Bangladesh has a long history, beginning with indigenous practices and evolving over time into state-controlled systems. In the post-1947 period, the Government of Bangladesh implemented a range of water resource management (WRM) initiatives, including large-scale projects, minor irrigation in winter, and smallscale flood control. These efforts were complemented by structural and non-structural measures, such as flood forecasting and warning systems. In the 21st century, the adoption of the National Water Policy (NWPo) and Guidelines for Participatory Water Management (GPWM) integrated stakeholder participation, with SIA, EIA, and EMP becoming mandatory in planning. Bangladesh's recent WRM strategies emphasize participation, resilience, and capacity building, particularly in response to climate change. The Bangladesh Delta Plan 2100 (BDP2100), adopted in 2018, envisions a safe, climateresilient, and prosperous delta by the end of the century, focusing on sustainable water resource use with minimal environmental impact. This article reviews the evolution of WRM approaches from ancient times through the colonial and modern periods, highlighting key lessons learned and adaptations that contribute to the formulation of the long-term BDP2100. This paper also presents water engineering education in Bangladesh.

Abstract: Scour at bridge piers, characterised by the erosion of geomaterials around a bridge pier's foundation support system due to the erosive action of flowing water, is a critical problem in engineering. It poses significant risks to bridge safety, often leading to structural failures, economic losses, and, in severe cases, loss of life. Conventional methods for bridge pier scour typically rely on empirical equations. However, these methods have some limitations as they may not accurately account for the complex and uncertain nature of scour phenomena across different bridge types and the interaction of unexpected environmental conditions. To mitigate the constraints and enhance the sustainability of conventional methods, especially considering recent changes in climate, the management of bridge pier scour has prompted an exploration of computer vision technologies to complement traditional approaches and adapt to climate induced alterations. Recent developments in computer vision technologies have revolutionised many industries in providing economical and non-intrusive solutions to problems. In the context of bridge scour, a computer vision solution can facilitate the detection of scouring and can be used to issue real-time alerts related to pier scour-based bridge collapse. In this paper, the authors reviewed recent studies and provided a detailed account on the different prospects in which computer vision technologies can be used to address the bridge pier scour problem. In addition, the authors provided a subjective analysis of existing limitations, challenges, and future potentials. Specifically targeting the operational solutions, the constraints and limitations related to in-field deployment are also discussed. The findings reveal that computer vision technology can offer promising solutions for real-time detection and monitoring of bridge pier scour, providing a nonchalant and non-intrusive approach to bridge safety assessment. By addressing the limitations of traditional methods and changes to the climate, the findings aim to contribute to the development of more robust and comprehensive strategies for mitigating the risks associated with scour phenomena.

Abstract: The accreditation process of engineering degree programs, governed by the Washington Accord, aims to benchmark engineering education across different countries against a set of criteria. This paper presents the journey of Bangladesh to become a full signatory to the Washington Accord with the anonymous support from twenty-three signatory countries of the International Engineering Alliance (IEA) on the 12 June 2024. The Board of Accreditation for Engineering and Technical Education (BAETE), established in 2003 as an independent body of the Institution of Engineers Bangladesh (IEB), is responsible to accredit Bachelor of Engineering degrees offered by Bangladeshi universities and colleges. As Bangladeshi engineering degrees were not accredited before, the engineers were facing multiple challenges to work in the developed countries like the USA, UK, Australia and Canada. These include higher degree research, dignified jobs, bilateral research, foreign investment in Bangladesh, immigration and others. The Australian chapter of IEB played a significant role in achieving this recognition as presented in this paper. It is expected that this recent recognition of Bangladeshi engineering programs will enhance the collaboration of engineering disciplines of both Australia and Bangladeshi universities. The outcome-based engineering educations in Bangladesh as recognized by the Washington Accord will assist Bangladeshi engineers to meet the growing challenges of sustainable development in Bangladesh and other full signatory member countries of Washington Accord.

Abstract: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the highest degree in academia. In PhD study, a student is trained so that he/she can become an independent researcher at the completion of the PhD degree. Many students enrolled in a PhD program has little understanding of conducting research and writing research papers. The supervisor of the PhD student has a significant role in transforming a doctoral student from a naïve researcher to a confident scholar. The research culture of the research group or university also plays a part in this process. The author of this paper presents his experience in the supervision of PhD students over the last 24 years in the field of water, environment and sustainability engineering. In this paper, he presents several key steps in the supervision of a PhD student. Some of his PhD students conducted research in water engineering at a distinguished level, which was demonstrated via publication in the top journals, receiving numerous citations and authoring chapters in national guideline called Australian Rainfall and Runoff (ARR). He also owns WSU’s Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Award in Higher Degree Research Supervision on two occasions. It is expected that this paper will be useful to new supervisors and PhD students to enhance their research skills.

Abstract: The rapid development of technology, particularly due to the impact of COVID-19, has greatly enhanced the capability of digital skills to rapidly upskill and reskill the workforce through microcredentials in the construction industry. The construction industry is a cornerstone of the Australian economy, employing over one million individuals and generating over $162 billion annually, accounting for 10% of GDP. In New South Wales (NSW), this sector is particularly vital, employing nearly one in ten workers and contributing approximately $100 billion in 2018. The NSW Government's $123 billion investment in public infrastructure from 2024 to 2025 highlights the sector's importance, focusing on transport, energy, health, and education. Western Sydney, the fastest-growing and most diverse region in NSW, exemplifies this potential with over 2.65 million residents and key projects like the $1.1 billion Rouse Hill Hospital, $3.5 billion in school investments, and the $7.9 billion Sydney Metro – Western Sydney Airport. Recognising the need for skilled workers, the NSW government invested $200 million in 2021 to establish the Institute of Applied Technology (IAT). This paper examines the skills gap and development in construction, the integration of theory and practice through collaboration among academia, further education, and industry, the University Accord report's vision for higher education, addressing future student and industry needs, and the importance of lifelong learning, with a case study on the IAT Construction. IATC aims to provide market-leading training programs in key signature disciplines in construction that the construction industry needs to address the current and future skill shortages.

Abstract: Skilled engineering graduates are needed for the sustainable development of a country. Bangladesh is the eighth populus country in the world, with only 3 engineers per thousand as compared to 25 engineers per thousand in Australia. This paper compares engineering studies at Western Sydney University (WSU) and Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET). It also compares Civil Engineering courses at WSU, BUET, Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IITK) and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA. Engineering education in WSU and BUET has few similarities, but there are several differences in terms of curriculum, accreditation, assessment, and career prospects. It has been found that BUET, IITK and MIT have few social sciences courses in their undergraduate engineering courses as opposed to WSU. Also, WSU Civil Engineering course does not have any chemistry subject in contrary to BUET, IITK and MIT. BUET course has a strong theoretical basis, which can be strengthened by adding more topics on soft skills such as scholarly writing and industry placements. Both the WSU and BUET should include subjects on emerging fields such as climate science, artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability. In terms of 2025 global ranking, WSU is placed at 384 (QS ranking), 301-350 (Times Higher Education) and 1 (Impact ranking). BUET has a ranking of 761-770 (QS ranking) and 1001-1200 (Times Higher Education). These rankings reflect the overall quality of WSU and BUET. WSU and BUET has an active memorandum of understanding (MOU), which should be made more effective by building new collaborations in teaching, learning and research in the areas of common interests.

Abstract: Regional flood frequency analysis (RFFA) is the most widely used statistical technique to estimate design floods in an ungauged location using flood data recorded at nearby stream gauging stations. The application of statistical techniques in hydrology, particularly in RFFA modelling is challenging in Australia due to a higher degree of non-homogeneity. Statistical tools and techniques involve planning, designing, sampling, data collection, analysing (descriptive and inferential), interpretation, and reporting to conduct statistical hydrologic research. Besides these there are lots of statistical and mathematical terms, concepts, and formulas, which are arithmetically complex and their physical interpretation in relation to rainfall-runoff process is relatively difficult. Hence, students who are not good at maths and hydrology face challenges to overcome these difficulties. Generally exploratory data analysis and visualisation, generalising the study results, scaling up the achieved results, and merging the findings in software engineering are tricky in statistical hydrology. In southeast Australia, the use of statistical techniques in RFFA is challenging, which might be due to highly variability and nonstationarity in hydrological data. This paper presents a case study using data from 88 catchments in New South Wales (NSW) where regression-based methods are used to develop prediction equations that can be applied to ungauged catchments in NSW to estimate design floods. This paper also highlights the learning aspects of statistical hydrology by the first author, which was based on the student-centred learning approach.

Abstract: Biomedical Engineering integrates knowledge from Engineering, Science, and Technology to solve health-related problems in Biology and Medicine. Eventually, Biomedical Engineers work shoulder to shoulder with medical specialists in various health-care applications and research. A Biomedical Engineering unit was introduced by this author into a course of Mechatronic Engineering in WSU to reflect an increasing interaction between Engineering and Medicine and prepare future professionals for meeting health-related engineering challenges ahead. This involved inviting medical professionals and engineering specialists to address students about application of engineering tools in the course of their practice and also liaising with the School of Nursing as well as with the local Hospital. Such an approach was very well received by all who participants in the process. Since WSU has a School of Medicine, School of Nursing and School of Engineering, it is now in a position to start a Biomedical Engineering undergraduate degree.

Abstract: Flooding remains a major concern for New South Wales (NSW), Australia, impacting infrastructure, communities, and ecosystems. This paper investigates the scaling behaviour of 20 catchments in state of NSW, examining the relationship between catchments area (A) and peak discharge (Q) and the scaling exponent that governs the relationship between catchment size and peak flow. The results show that the scaling exponent varies widely for the study catchments. The value of the scaling component varies in the range of -0.73 to 2.12 (mean = 0.50 and standard deviation = 1.16). The results show that the generally recommended exponent of 0.7 is not applicable to the study data set. The relative error of estimation of the highest flow in two of the ten paired catchments is in the range of -79% to 175% (mean = -6.72% and standard deviation of 73.31%). Further study is needed to validate the scaling exponent using a greater number of catchments across Australia. The first author has adopted a project-based learning method in understanding statistical hydrology concepts presented in this paper.

Abstract: Graduate Engineer is one of the most demandable occupations in Australia. This is one of the most crucial parts of higher education sectors in Australia both domestically and internationally. However, the engineering education sector in Australia is rapidly transforming during the last two decades because of several challenges including technological advancements, the necessity of sustainable solutions and a fast-changing socio-economic environment. Industry revolution, incorporating AI, and advancements in information technology now enforcing to cross-fertilize the concepts from various disciplines. Besides, the global pandemic also showed the world how to adapt in critical moments to maintain the economic balance, such as distance work, distance learning, and AI-assisted learning. These challenges are working as a driving force to upgrade the education courses. Besides, preparing multi-skilled employable engineering graduates is also highly required. Hence, the advancement in the engineering education system is already in progress in recent times. The transformation from a traditional academic curriculum to a more engaging and involving curriculum clearly shows positive outcomes because of newly emerged active learning, team-based learning, and project-based learning. This paper aims to focus on the recent state-of-the-art advancement in the Australian engineering education sector and to present the current challenges that still need to be addressed in future to prepare engineering graduates with more adaptability, creativity, and multi-disciplinary knowledge.